6 Stretches To Ease Fibromyalgia Pain

Call it the fibromyalgia conundrum: When you hurt all over, getting moving is the last thing you feel like doing. But it's one of the best things you can do to ease the ache. According to one review of research, stretching relieved the pain—and improved the overall quality of life—in people with fibromyalgia.

That's because stretching boosts circulation and eases the muscle stiffness and tenderness caused by the disorder, says Eric Suarez, a personal trainer and founder of Fibromyalgia-Fitness.com. "It also boosts stability and coordination." Make it part of your daily routine with the following 6 moves, which target fibromyalgia's tender points. Aim to do the sequence once a day, and stretch only as far as you feel comfortable. (Looking for natural remedies that really work? Prevention has smart answers—get 2 FREE gifts when you subscribe today.)

Side Bend

Sarah Klein

Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and stomach tight. Slowly bend to right, stretching left arm overhead and resting right hand on leg. Hold 1 second, and slowly return to start. Repeat on left side; this is 1 rep. Do 10.

Stand with shoulders relaxed, arms at sides, and back straight. Slowly roll both shoulders up toward ears and back towards the rear. Relax neck and roll shoulders forward, returning to starting position. Do 10 reps, followed by a set of the side bend exercise. Repeat this sequence 2 to 3 times. (Relax tight shoulders with these gentle yoga poses.)

Huggers

Sarah Klein

Stand with feet together and arms outstretched. Slowly wrap arms around torso in hugging motion, with right arm above left. Extend arms as wide as possible. Repeat, with left arm above right. Do 10 reps.

Step left foot forward and bend both knees into lunge. Lower right knee to ground, keeping left knee over ankle. Raise left arm overhead. Slowly bend to right and touch right hand to ground, feeling side stretch. Hold 5 to 10 seconds before returning to center. (Avoid these common yoga mistakes.)

Downward-Facing Dog

Sarah Klein

Begin on hands and knees, hips in line with knees and shoulders in line with hands. Pressing through hands, lift knees off floor, and straighten legs, pushing butt in the air. (Can't do it? Try this modification.) Align ears with arms and keep head facing floor. Hold 4 seconds, breathing deeply.

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